Quality bush rugby and the announcement of a new Life Member were a couple of highlights of the inaugural Warren Rugby Club Old Boys’ Day last Saturday at Victoria Oval, Warren. 

Representatives from the premiership winning teams throughout the club’s 69 year history were tasked with contacting former players for this first gathering of alumni, in what is planned to become an annual tradition. 

With a large number of former players swapping memories in marquees on the sideline it was time to turn to the on-field action against Coonamble. The first game was Warren Pumarettes versus Coonamble womens’ team, a tight tussle that ended in Warren coming out the winners, 15-10. Next up was second grade Warren Pumas versus Coonamble Rams with plenty of young players from both sides eager to have a run. The final score was 21-12, featuring a come-back from the home side after being behind at half time. 

The sun was still shining though the cold had started to creep in at 3pm when the first grade game got under way. This was an absorbing contest despite the one-sided score of 51-5 to the hosts; further cementing Warren Pumas’ position at the top of the Western Plains table and providing welcome entertainment for the visiting old boys. 

At the conclusion of the game, club vice president Jack Kelly made a presentation to announce new Life Member Mal Smith.  

“Mal played his first game for Warren in 1983 as a 15 year old. He continued playing in school holidays in 1984-85 before having a few years away from the district,” said Mr Kelly. “My old man recruited him off the street in 1995 when Warren was in a rebuild stage and he played all the way through till 2003 when he retired after winning a premiership, the first in 15 years for the club.” 

Mal stood down from any official duties at the club for 14 years while raising a young family of five children, before returning in 2017 as a scrum consultant. Since then he has been involved in the club’s coaching line-up, helping get to four grand finals and winning one in 2018 as assistant coach. 

“Mal is known for his no nonsense approach but also being able to laugh at player indiscretions. He is our current coach and has done so much to help not only myself but many others over the years. A great coach, mentor and friend,” said Mr Kelly. 

Speaking after the presentation Mal Smith said it was a surprise and honour to receive the Life Membership. “I got a bit emotional when I realised Jack was talking about me,” he said. “It’s a fantastic club and I was very honoured to be acknowledged for something I really enjoy doing and find so rewarding.” 

Mr Smith joins Barry Beach, Ian McKay, Tish McAlary, Milton Quigley, Greg Whiteley, John Azar and Michael McKay as Life Members. 

Next year’s Old Boys’ Day will celebrate 70 years of Warren Rugby Club.